Hanuman name meaning is not just a topic of curiosity—it’s a doorway to understanding his divine essence. The sacred list known as Ashtottara Shatanamavali Hanuman, which includes 108 of his names, helps us truly connect with the greatness of Bajrang Bali.
For anyone who holds devotion for Shri Hanuman, Shri Ram, or the path of Sanatan Dharma close to their heart, exploring these names is a form of bhakti—a loving connection with the divine.
Meaning of Hanuman’s Name in Sanskrit
Names in Sanatan Dharma are never just labels. They are stories, symbols, and seeds of energy.
The name Hanuman, in Sanskrit, comes from two simple yet powerful words—“hanu”, which means jaw or cheek, and “man”, which can mean prominent or disfigured.
So Hanuman literally means “the one with the disfigured jaw” or “the one with a prominent jaw.” But how did he get such a name?
It goes back to a beloved story from his childhood. Little Hanuman, full of divine mischief, once mistook the glowing sun for a ripe fruit. With fearless energy, he leapt into the sky to snatch it. The gods panicked. To stop him, Lord Indra hurled his thunderbolt. It struck young Hanuman on the face, injuring his jaw and sending him crashing back to earth.
That single moment shaped his name and destiny.
But this is where it gets deeper. That injury didn’t break him—it awakened something greater. The gods, realizing their mistake, blessed Hanuman with unmatched strength, intelligence, and immortality.
So, his name is more than an injury. It’s a memory of divine resilience.
Every time we say “Hanuman,” we’re not just remembering a god—we’re remembering a spirit who rose higher even after a fall. A symbol of childlike innocence, divine courage, and unshakable bhakti.
And that, dear reader, is the true power behind the name.
Hanuman Etymology and Origin
Hanuman is known by many names—Anjaneya (son of Anjana), Maruti (son of the wind god Marut), and Pavanputra (son of Vayu). His birth story itself is divine.
Anjana, a celestial nymph, was cursed to be born on Earth. She prayed to Shiva for a child. Meanwhile, Vayu carried a portion of the divine offering from a yagna to her. As a result, Hanuman was born with divine strength and devotion.
This origin story reveals how deeply rooted Hanuman is in our scriptures. His etymology is not accidental—it’s crafted by the cosmos.
Symbolism of the Name Hanuman in Hindu Devotion
The name Hanuman means more than just “broken jaw.” It represents:
- Devotion without limits
- Service without pride
- Strength without ego
- Wisdom without arrogance
In bhakti yoga, the name “Hanuman” itself is a mantra. It purifies the heart and strengthens the soul. Devotees chant it when in trouble, when praying, and even as part of daily life.
To say “Hanuman” is to remember your highest self—brave, devoted, and pure.
Why is Hanuman Called Hanuman?
Let’s go back to that story again. Little Hanuman saw the sun and thought it was a fruit. He flew toward it with all his strength and joy. Indra struck him, and he fell to Earth with his jaw injured.
The gods blessed him after that incident. They gave him immortality, strength, and protection. But the name “Hanuman”—the one whose jaw was affected—remained.
This story tells us something beautiful. Even when we fall, our names, our identities, and our devotion can become blessings.
Hanuman Name Significance in Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma
In Hinduism, names aren’t random. They carry vibrations. To call someone by their name is to call forth their essence.
When we say “Hanuman,” we invoke:
- Courage
- Wisdom
- Loyalty
- Power
- Devotion to Rama
Sanatan Dharma teaches us that nama smaranam—the remembrance of the divine name—is a path to moksha (liberation). Hanuman’s name is one such path. Whether we chant the Hanuman Chalisa, the Sundarkand, or just say “Jai Hanuman,” we’re aligning with the divine.
(You can also explore the meaning of Hanuman Chalisa here.)
Ashtottara Shatanamavali Hanuman – 108 Sacred Names and Meanings
The phrase Ashtottara Shatanamavali Hanuman means “108 Names of Hanuman.”
- Ashta = 8
- Ottara = plus
- Shata = 100
- Namavali = list of names
Each of these names praises a different quality of Hanuman. Chanting these names is a powerful spiritual practice. They purify the mind, bring peace, and awaken divine energy within us.
108 Names of Lord Hanuman with Meanings
(Each name honors a divine quality or episode in Hanuman’s life.)
Source: → Drik Panchang – 108 Names of Hanuman
- Om Anjaneyaya Namah – Son of Anjana
- Om Mahaviraya Namah – Most valiant
- Om Hanumate Namah – One with puffy or disfigured jaw
- Om Marutatmajaya Namah – Son of the wind god
- Om Tatvagyanapradaya Namah – Granter of true wisdom
- Om Sitadevimudrapradayakaya Namah – Deliverer of Sita’s ring
- Om Ashokavanikachhetra Namah – Destroyer of Ashoka’s garden
- Om Sarvamayavibhanjanaya Namah – Breaker of all illusions
- Om Sarvabandhavimoktre Namah – Liberator from all bonds
- Om Rakshovidhwansakarakaya Namah – Slayer of demons
- Om Paravidyapariharaya Namah – Eliminator of enemy knowledge
- Om Parashauryavinashakaya Namah – Destroyer of enemy valor
- Om Paramantranirakartre Namah – Chant master of Rama’s mantra
- Om Parayantraprabhedakaya Namah – One who thwarts enemy plans
- Om Sarvagrahavinashine Namah – Neutralizer of planetary afflictions
- Om Bhimasenasahayakrite Namah – Ally of Bheema
- Om Sarvadukhahara Namah – Reliever of all sorrows
- Om Sarvalokacharine Namah – Wanderer across all worlds
- Om Manojavaya Namah – Mind-speed energy
- Om Parijata Drumulasthaya Namah – Dweller near Parijata tree
- Om Sarvamantrasvarupaya Namah – Embodiment of all hymns
- Om Sarvatantrasvarupine Namah – Living tantra wisdom
- Om Sarvayantratmakaya Namah – Resident of all yantras
- Om Kapishvaraya Namah – Lord of monkeys
- Om Mahakayaya Namah – Gigantic form
- Om Sarvarogaharaya Namah – Healer of all illnesses
- Om Prabhave Namah – Renowned and powerful
- Om Balasiddhikaraya Namah – Giver of spiritual power
- Om Sarvavidyasampattipradayakaya Namah – Bestower of knowledge
- Om Kapisenanayakaya Namah – Leader of the monkey army
- Om Bhavishyathchaturanaya Namah – Knower of the future
- Om Kumarabrahmacharine Namah – Young celibate disciple
- Om Ratnakundalayaya Namah – Earring adorned deity
- Om Chanchaladvalasannaddhaya Namah – Drape of fluttering cloth
- Om Gandharvavidyalolupaya Namah – Lover of celestial music
- Om Mahaprabhave Namah – Radiant with divine light
- Om Karagrahabhanjanaya Namah – Liberator from imprisonment
- Om Shrinkhalabandhamochakaya Namah – Freeing from chains of grief
- Om Sagarottarakaya Namah – One who leapt over the ocean
- Om Pragnyaya Namah – Full of wisdom
- Om Ramadutaya Namah – Rama’s devoted messenger
- Om Pratapavate Namah – Known for heroic deeds
- Om Vanaraya Namah – Leader of Vanaras
- Om Kesarisutaya Namah – Son of Kesari
- Om Sitashokanivarakaya Namah – Uplifter from Sita’s sorrow
- Om Anjanagarbhasambhutaya Namah – Born of Anjani’s womb
- Om Balarkasadrashananaya Namah – Bright as the rising sun
- Om Vibhishanapriyakaraya Namah – Dear friend of Vibhishana
- Om Dashagrivakulantakaya Namah – Destroyer of Ravana’s lineage
- Om Lakshmanapranadatraya Namah – Revived Lakshmana’s life
- Om Vajrakayaya Namah – As solid as thunderbolt
- Om Mahadyutaye Namah – Brilliantly radiant
- Om Chiranjivine Namah – Eternal being
- Om Ramabhaktaya Namah – Devotee supreme of Rama
- Om Daityakaryavighatakaya Namah – Disruptor of demonic acts
- Om Akshahantre Namah – Slayer of enemies
- Om Kanchanabhaya Namah – Golden‑hued
- Om Panchavaktraya Namah – Five-faced form
- Om Mahatapase Namah – Great ascetic
- Om Lankinibhajanaya Namah – Killer of Lanka’s guardian
- Om Shrimate Namah – Honored respectfully
- Om Simhikapranabhanjanaya Namah – Slayer of Simhika
- Om Gandhamadanaśailasthaya Namah – Abiding in Gandhamadana hills
- Om Lankapuravidyakaya Namah – Conqueror of Lanka
- Om Sugrivasachivaya Namah – Chief minister of Sugriva
- Om Dhiraya Namah – Moderately heroic
- Om Shuraya Namah – Brave in battle
- Om Daityakulantakaya Namah – Vanquisher of demon clans
- Om Suvarchalarchitaya Namah – Worshipped by devas
- Om Tejase Namah – Full of radiance
- Om Ramachudamanipradayakaya Namah – Deliverer of Rama’s ring to Sita
- Om Kamarupine Namah – Shape‑changer at will
- Om Pingalakshaya Namah – Pink‑eyed one
- Om Vardhimainakapujitaya Namah – Worshipped on Mainaka hill
- Om Kabalikritamartandamandalaya Namah – Swallower of the sun
- Om Vijitendriyaya Namah – Controller of the senses
- Om Ramasugrivasandhatre Namah – Liaison between Rama and Sugriva
- Om Mahiravanamardhanaya Namah – Slayer of Mahiravana
- Om Sphatikabhaya Namah – Crystal‑clear body
- Om Vagadhishaya Namah – Lord of speech and orators
- Om Navavyakritapanditaya Namah – Master scholar
- Om Chaturbahave Namah – Four‑armed warrior
- Om Dinabandhuraya Namah – Friend of the weak
- Om Mayatmane Namah – Supreme self‑realized
- Om Bhaktavatsalaya Namah – Protector of devotees
- Om Sanjivananāgārthaya Namah – Bearer of Sanjeevani herb
- Om Suuchaye Namah – Pure and sacred
- Om Vagmine Namah – Eloquent speaker
- Om Dridhavrataaya Namah – Firm in vow
- Om Kalanemipramathanaya Namah – Slayer of Kalanemi
- Om Harimarkatamarkata Namah – Chief of monkey hosts
- Om Dantaaya Namah – Gentle and well‑disciplined
- Om Shantaya Namah – Deeply composed
- Om Prasannatmane Namah – Cheerful heart
- Om Shatakanthamadapahartre Namah – Destroyer of arrogance
- Om Yogine Namah – Supreme yogi
- Om Ramakathalolaya Namah – Lover of Rama’s stories
- Om Sitanveshanapanditaya Namah – Master of finding Sita
- Om Vajradamashrita Namah – Firm as diamond‑jawed
- Om Vajranakhaya Namah – Strong‑nailed like vajra
- Om Rudraviryasamudbhavaya Namah – Born of Shiva’s power
- Om Indrajitprahitamoghabrahmastraviniwarakaya Namah – Nullifier of Indrajit’s Brahmastra
- Om Parthadhvajagrasamvasine Namah – Flag atop Arjuna’s chariot
- Om Sharapanjarabhedakaya Namah – Breaker of arrow‑prison
- Om Dashabahave Namah – Ten‑armed form
- Om Lokapujyaya Namah – Revered throughout the worlds
- Om Jambavatpritivardhanaya Namah – Beloved by Jambavan
- Om Sitasameta Shriramapada Sevadurandharaya Namah – Devoted servant of Sita‑Rama’s feet
These sacred names echo Hanuman’s devotion, strength, wisdom, protection, and universal love. Chanting them is a beautiful spiritual practice that connects us deeply with his divine energy.
Chanting all 108 or even a few daily creates a deep connection with Hanuman.
How Devotees Use the 108 Names in Daily Practice
Devotees chant the Ashtottara Shatanamavali Hanuman:
- On Tuesdays and Saturdays
- During Hanuman Jayanti
- Before starting new journeys
- During tough times or illness
- As a daily practice for strength and devotion
You can chant them out loud or in your heart. You can write them down in a journal or recite them before sleep.
Even children can learn these names slowly. It builds a spiritual habit and brings calmness and courage.
The Spiritual Significance of Hanuman Name Meaning in Daily Life
The Hanuman name meaning carries profound spiritual significance beyond mythology. For devotees, understanding and meditating on the meaning of Hanuman’s name in Sanskrit brings clarity and strength. Each time we chant the sacred names, especially the Hanuman 108 names, we invoke divine qualities like courage, loyalty, and selfless service.
The Ashtottara Shatanamavali Hanuman serves as a powerful tool for daily spiritual practice, enabling us to align our hearts with Hanuman’s fearless devotion and humility. This sacred practice is believed to remove obstacles, enhance mental focus, and deepen one’s connection with Lord Rama’s divine mission.
Exploring the Hanuman Name Origin and Story: A Path to Devotion
The Hanuman name origin is deeply intertwined with his divine Hanuman name story, which illustrates resilience and grace in adversity. From the childhood incident that gave him his unique name to the blessings from gods that followed, every aspect reflects cosmic intention. This story inspires devotees to embrace their own challenges with strength and faith.
Knowing the Hanuman names and meanings in the Ashtottara Shatanamavali Hanuman allows followers to engage with his multifaceted nature—whether as the mighty warrior, the wise counselor, or the devoted servant of Rama. Thus, the Hanuman name meaning and story become a spiritual guide, encouraging bhakti and surrender in everyday life.
Sources and References
All information in this post has been gathered and verified from:
- Drik Panchang – 108 Hanuman Names
- Hanuman Chalisa Meaning – hanumanstories.com
- Ramayan by Goswami Tulsidas
- Valmiki Ramayan
- Spiritual discourses by Swami Tejomayananda and Morari Bapu
These texts and teachers have passed down the wisdom of Hanuman across generations.
Conclusion: The Power Behind Hanuman Name Meaning and Ashtottara Shatanamavali Hanuman
Understanding the Hanuman name meaning is like holding a key to his divine presence. And chanting the Ashtottara Shatanamavali Hanuman brings that presence into our daily lives.
Hanuman teaches us to be strong, humble, and always devoted. His names are not just words—they are light.
Take time to know them. To chant them. To love them.
Jai Hanuman. Jai Bajrang Bali.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does the name Hanuman mean?
The name Hanuman is of Sanskrit origin, meaning “one with a disfigured jaw” or “the one with a prominent jaw,” reflecting his monkey-like appearance in Hindu mythology.
Who is Hanuman in Hindu mythology?
Hanuman is a devoted follower of Lord Rama and a central figure in the epic Ramayana, known for his strength, courage, and loyalty.
Why is Hanuman considered a symbol of strength?
Hanuman is considered a symbol of strength due to his extraordinary feats, divine origins, and unwavering devotion. In Hindu mythology, he performed powerful acts that demonstrated immense physical power, such as lifting the entire Sanjeevani mountain to save Lakshmana and leaping across the ocean to reach Lanka. These stories illustrate not only his physical might but also his determination and courage.
Born with divine blessings, Hanuman is the son of the wind god Vayu and is also regarded as an incarnation of Lord Shiva. These associations give him supernatural strength and spiritual significance.
Beyond physical power, Hanuman embodies mental and emotional strength. He remains fearless in the face of danger, stays focused under pressure, and demonstrates complete control over his ego and emotions. His strength comes not only from his powers but also from his devotion to Lord Rama, which gave him boundless energy and confidence.
Hanuman symbolizes the idea that true strength arises from a combination of physical ability, mental discipline, emotional stability, and spiritual devotion.
What is the significance of Hanuman’s name?
The name signifies his unique identity and his role as a protector and servant of righteousness in Hindu tradition.
What are some common nicknames for Hanuman?
Common nicknames include Bajrang Bali, Anjaneya, and Pavanputra, each highlighting different aspects of his character.z
Is Hanuman a god or a devotee?
Hanuman is both a devotee and revered as a divine figure.
He is the greatest devotee of Lord Rama, known for his unwavering devotion (bhakti), humility, and service.
At the same time, he is considered a god in his own right in Hinduism, worshipped as an incarnation of Shiva and the son of the wind god Vayu.
Devotees pray to Hanuman for strength, courage, wisdom, and protection.
So, Hanuman is uniquely both a devotee (bhakta) and a deity (devata).
How is Hanuman worshipped?
Devotees worship Hanuman through prayers, chanting the Hanuman Chalisa, and offering sweets like laddoos on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
What is the Hanuman Chalisa?
The Hanuman Chalisa is a 40-verse devotional hymn written by Tulsidas in praise of Lord Hanuman. It is recited for strength, protection, and spiritual blessings.
What does Hanuman represent in spirituality?
Hanuman represents devotion, selflessness, humility, and the power of faith in overcoming obstacles.
Are there any festivals dedicated to Hanuman?
Yes, Hanuman Jayanti is the main festival dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It celebrates his birth and is observed with prayers, chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa, and temple visits, especially in India. The date varies by region but usually falls in Chaitra (March–April) or Vaishakha (April–May).
What are the key stories associated with Hanuman?
Several key stories highlight Hanuman’s strength, devotion, and wisdom in Hindu mythology:
Childhood and the Sun: As a child, Hanuman mistook the sun for a fruit and tried to eat it, showcasing his divine strength early on.
Meeting Lord Rama: Hanuman became a devoted follower of Rama after meeting him during the search for Sita, beginning his lifelong service.
Crossing the Ocean to Lanka: Hanuman leapt across the ocean to reach Lanka, found Sita, and gave her Rama’s ring as a sign of hope.
Burning of Lanka: Captured by Ravana’s forces, Hanuman used his burning tail to set fire to parts of Lanka before escaping.
Bringing the Sanjeevani Herb: To save Lakshmana, Hanuman flew to the Himalayas and carried back an entire mountain when he couldn’t identify the healing herb.
Hanuman’s Role in the War: He played a vital part in Rama’s victory over Ravana, displaying unmatched courage and loyalty throughout the battle.
Can the name Hanuman be used for babies?
Yes, the name Hanuman can be used for babies, especially in Hindu families where it holds deep spiritual and cultural significance. It symbolizes strength, devotion, and protection. However, some traditions prefer using derivative names like Anjaneya, Maruti, or Bajrang to show reverence, as Hanuman is a deity.
What colors are associated with Hanuman?
Orange and red are commonly associated with Hanuman, symbolizing energy, courage, and spirituality.
Where can I learn more about Hanuman’s life?
You can learn about Hanuman’s life through ancient scriptures like the Ramayana, Hanuman Chalisa, and various Puranas. These texts share detailed accounts of his birth, devotion to Lord Rama, heroic deeds, and spiritual significance.
For easy-to-read stories, explanations, and devotional content, visit HanumanStories.com — a dedicated site sharing the legends and lessons of Lord Hanuman in a simple and engaging way.
What is the role of Hanuman in the Ramayana?
Hanuman plays a vital role in the Ramayana as the devoted servant of Lord Rama and a key warrior in the battle against Ravana. He helps Rama by:
Finding Sita in Lanka after her abduction.
Crossing the ocean with his divine strength and courage.
Conveying Rama’s message to Sita and giving her hope.
Burning parts of Lanka to show his power and warn Ravana.
Bringing the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshmana’s life.
Fighting bravely in the war to defeat Ravana.
Hanuman’s actions in the Ramayana highlight his devotion, strength, wisdom, and selfless service, making him one of the most beloved characters in the epic.
Are there temples dedicated to Hanuman?
Yes, famous temples like the Hanuman Temple in Connaught Place, Delhi, and the Sankat Mochan Temple in Varanasi are dedicated to him.
What lessons can we learn from Hanuman?
Lessons include the importance of loyalty, perseverance, and serving others selflessly.
Is Hanuman mentioned in other cultures?
Hanuman is mainly known from Hindu mythology and the Indian epic Ramayana. However, he is also featured in stories and traditions of other cultures influenced by Indian culture, especially in Southeast Asia countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Cambodia have their own versions of Hanuman’s tales. Hanuman appears in their traditional dances, puppetry, and local versions of the Ramayana. Some Buddhist and Jain texts include similar monkey figures inspired by Hanuman. Overall, Hanuman is recognized beyond India, adapted into different cultures with unique local features.
What is the significance of Hanuman’s tail?
His tail symbolizes agility and his ability to overcome challenges, often depicted as a powerful weapon.
How can I incorporate Hanuman’s qualities into my life?
Practicing devotion, helping others, and facing challenges with courage can help embody Hanuman’s virtue